Breaking Free from Closed-Mindedness

Breaking Free from Closed-Mindedness

The human mind is a complex and fascinating entity. It can come up with innovative ideas and solutions, but it can also be closed off to new ways of thinking. In "Reopening the mind: how cognitive closure kills creative thinking," we are presented with the notion that closed-mindedness is detrimental to creative thinking. Conversely, "How to Read: Lots of Inputs and a Strong Filter" presents the idea that we need to filter our inputs to optimize our reading and learning experience. These two articles may seem to contradict each other, but they are more alike than they appear.

Closed-mindedness stifles creativity. When we are too attached to our beliefs and refuse to consider other perspectives, we limit ourselves. "Reopening the mind" argues that cognitive closure, or the inability to consider alternative viewpoints, is the enemy of creativity. When we are open-minded, we can explore new ideas and make connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. This is the foundation of creative thinking.

However, being too open-minded can also be problematic. "How to Read" suggests that we need to filter our inputs to avoid being overwhelmed by too much information. We need to be selective about what information we consume to optimize our learning experience. This is where the two articles intersect. While "Reopening the mind" emphasizes the importance of being open-minded, "How to Read" stresses the importance of being mindful of what we allow into our minds.

In order to be truly creative, we need to find a balance between being open-minded and filtering our inputs. This means being willing to entertain new ideas and perspectives, while also being discerning about what information we consume. We need to be intentional about what we read, watch, and listen to, while also being open to new sources of inspiration.

In conclusion, closed-mindedness and too much openness can both hinder our ability to think creatively. We need to find a balance between the two by being open to new ideas while also filtering our inputs. By doing so, we can break free from cognitive closure and tap into our full creative potential.